482/494 visas: PMSOL for priority processing and travel exemptions; stronger labour market testing

482/494 visas: PMSOL for priority processing and travel exemptions; stronger labour market testing

A new Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) was announced today that sees priority processing and likely travel exemptions for visa applicants nominated for certain medical professional, construction, and IT occupations. Additional labour market testing on the government’s Jobactive website is required from tomorrow.

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COVID-19: Hundreds of thousands stranded Australian temporary visa holders and the lucky few allowed to enter

COVID-19: Hundreds of thousands stranded Australian temporary visa holders and the lucky few allowed to enter

Of the 5.1 million temporary visas holders outside Australia as of 31 May 2020, roughly 255,000 temporary residents including 25,000 temporary sponsored workers or their family members were stuck overseas. As only 10,000 travel exemptions were granted up to 22 June 2020, most of which were for transiting passengers, it is an unfortunate situation that many temporary visa holders may see their visas expire without being able to return to Australia.

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Australia’s permanent migration places remain at 160,000 for 2020-21…for now

Australia’s permanent migration places remain at 160,000 for 2020-21…for now

The Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) has released an FAQ to confirm among other things that the number of permanent migration places allocated for this program year (2020-21) is the same as for the last program year. This is not set in stone and is likely to change when the Federal Budget is handed down in October.

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Special visa arrangements for Hong Kong passport holders; new skilled occupation lists coming soon?

Special visa arrangements for Hong Kong passport holders; new skilled occupation lists coming soon?

The prime minister has set out a plan for certain Hong Kong passport holders who hold Australian visas to extend their stay in Australia for up to 5 years. Additionally, new student graduates and temporary work visa applicants will also have access to a 5-year visa, with a pathway to a permanent visa available. The government has also set its sights on attracting Hong Kong’s best a brightest workers and businesses.

But perhaps the biggest announcement may be that revisions to the skilled occupation lists are coming sooner rather than later.

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